Understanding the National Transportation Library: A Key Resource for Transportation Data

Definition & Meaning

The National Transportation Library (NTL) is a vital resource within the Bureau of Transportation Statistics (BTS). Established in 1998 under the Transportation Equity Act for the 21st Century (TEA-21), the NTL's primary goal is to provide and maintain access to essential statistical information that supports transportation decision-making at federal, state, and local levels. In 2008, the NTL was enhanced through a merger with the US Department of Transportation (DOT) Library, further broadening its scope and resources.

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Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

For instance, a state transportation agency may use the NTL to access data on traffic patterns to inform road safety initiatives. Additionally, a city planner might rely on NTL resources to evaluate the impact of public transportation projects on local communities (hypothetical example).

Comparison with related terms

Term Definition Difference
Transportation Statistics Data related to transportation systems and usage. Statistics are a component of the NTL, which also includes access and coordination.
Transportation Library A library focused on transportation-related materials. The NTL is a specific national library with a broader mandate for statistical data.

What to do if this term applies to you

If you need access to transportation data or resources, consider visiting the NTL's website for available materials. Users can also explore US Legal Forms for templates that may assist in managing transportation-related legal matters. For complex issues, seeking professional legal advice is recommended.

Quick facts

  • Established: 1998
  • Governing Statute: 49 USCS § 111(f)
  • Primary Focus: Transportation statistics and information access
  • Coordination: Works with public and private transportation libraries

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

The NTL aims to provide access to transportation-related statistical information to support decision-making.